Male Breast Reduction

Excess breast tissue and overly large, feminine-looking breasts can form in men for a variety of reasons, but no matter the cause, enlarged male breasts can detract from a man’s physique and be a tremendous source of embarrassment. Male breast reduction is designed to help create a trimmer, more manly upper body and reduce male breasts (Gynecomastia) when they are abnormally large in post-pubescent men.

The Male Breast Reduction Procedure

During your consultation with Dr. Norris, he will assess your chest area, listen to you describe your cosmetic goals and provide you with his opinion on the best way to address your male breasts.

Gynecomastia correction may involve liposuction, tissue excision or a combination of the two. For men with highly localized deposits of excess breast tissue, tissue excision only may be needed, whereas men with more diffuse fat across their chest will require liposuction only. For men with both issues, a combination of liposuction and tissue excision is performed to flatten out the chest area.

Usually a male breast reduction requires only local anesthesia with sedation and takes a short time to perform. If tissue excision is needed, a discreet incision is placed around a portion of the areola. If liposuction is needed, tiny incisions are made near problematic fat deposits to accommodate the slim cannula, or suction tube, used during the procedure.

Recovering From Male Breast Reduction in Houston

Immediately following surgery, a dressing and compression vest will be applied to your chest, and while the dressing may be removed on the day following surgery, the compression vest will likely need to be worn for a period of weeks after the male breast reduction procedure. This will reduce swelling and help your chest keep its new, firmer shape.

Discomfort is typically minimal after gynecomastia surgery, but pain medication may still be recommended for a few days. Most patients return to work within a week of surgery and see most swelling and bruising resolve within 1-2 weeks. Strenuous activity and exercise should typically be avoided for at least three weeks after male breast reduction, and Dr. Norris will advise you on specific activity restrictions based on your healing progress in the weeks and months following the procedure.

Within a few months of your male breast reduction, you will see a slimmer chest with less volume and puffiness and inconspicuous scars that will fade over time and are usually covered by chest hair.

Am I a good candidate for male breast reduction?

During the consultation process, your surgeon will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for surgery. Ideal candidates will possess good overall physical and mental health. It is also important that candidates have realistic surgical expectations.

Will I experience any significant pain following surgery?

It is reasonable to expect some pain during the recovery process. In most cases, pain is well tolerated by patients following surgery. Pain is usually moderate and your surgeon may prescribe pain medication to alleviate discomfort.

How much time should I take off from work or school after surgery?

In general, recovering patients may take off between 3 and 10 days from work or school after male breast reduction. The type of work you do and the extent of your surgical procedure may affect the length of time required. Healing time varies greatly among patients and should be discussed with your surgeon.

Are there any significant risks associated with male breast reduction?

There are inherent risks associated with all surgical procedures. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of male breast reduction with your surgeon. Complications are rare, but may include infection, bleeding, loss of nipple sensation, asymmetry and scarring.

Contact our Houston plastic surgery practice to learn more about male breast reduction in Houston and treatment of gynecomastia.